MennoLink Books and Music

Jacob W. Elias highlights the ways in which Paul draws on narratives as he ministers via letters to congregations throughout the first century Mediterranean world. Paul frequently alludes to his own personal story as a Jew who encountered the risen Christ. Repeatedly Paul reminds his readers about Jesus' life and faithfulness, although he nowhere shares that story in any detail. Paul draws on Old Testament stories and the narratives and images of the Greco-Roman world. And Paul demonstrates his awareness of each congregation's story.

Copyright 2006 Herald Press.

Sunday school teachers, Bible study leaders, and other persons interested in careful Bible study will find the explanatory essays for each section of Scripture helpful.

Two focused articles at the end of each chapter, The Text in biblical Context and The Text in the Life of the Church, are unique features of the series.

Especially in the latter, believers church perspectives come through clearly. These include believers baptism, commitment to the Rule of Christ (Matthew 18:15-20) as central to church membership, belief in the power of love in all relationships, and a willingness to follow the way of the cross of Christ.

The series is based on the conviction that God still speaks to all who will listen, and that the Holy Spirit makes the Word a living and authoritative guide for all who want to know and do God's will.